Doncaster Rovers Belles snap up England striker Dowie

Doncaster Rovers Belles have signalled their intent to challenge for honours in FAWSL1 by snapping up England striker Natasha Dowie.

Joining from Liverpool Ladies, the 27-year-old insists she would not have joined the Belles if she was not confident of winning trophies.

“I want to win silverware,” Dowie said. “I’m a winner full stop.

“I’ve come to Doncaster to win things or at least challenge until the end.

“I want to bring lots of goals to the club this season.

“I’m a hard worker who never gives up so I hope this will be appreciated by the players and fans.”

Belles boss Glen Harris says the signing of Dowie sends out a clear message to the rest of FAWSL1.

He said: “I’m delighted to have secured the signing of Tash.

“She is a winner and with her ability and desire to succeed, her arrival is a significant statement of intent.

“This was a considered decision from Tash.

“We know several clubs were keen to secure her signature but we are pleased she has committed to the Belles.

“Again, with another quality signing, it sends out a strong message.”

Dowie – niece of former Northern Ireland international Iain – scored 14 times for the Reds last season.

She has returned from a two month loan spell in Australia with W-League side Melbourne Victory and is delighted to be joining a Belles side as they return to the top flight following promotion last season.

Dowie said: “I’m very please to sign for Doncaster.

“I can now get excited and focused for the new season after signing professional terms.

“I’m at the stage of my career where I have won a lot of things and I see Doncaster as an exciting, up-and-coming team with a great set-up.

“I know a lot of players and think they, as well as the staff, are great characters on and off the pitch.

“The offer I was given ticked all of the boxes.

“I’m and experienced player and I’m studying for my UEFA A Licence this year so I hope I can help develop players.

“I want to keep improving as a player also – I never stop wanting to learn and be better.”

Dowie is a two-time FAWSL1 champion and FA Cup winner as well as FA Players’ Player of the Year and Super League golden boot winner.

The forner Everton, Charlton and Fulham striker is the third signing the Belles have made from Liverpool in two days after Katrin Omarsdottir and Becky Easton joined on Thursday.

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